We are all up against a relentless stream of competing demands when we are trying to write. These demands often seem urgent, and while they can be compelling and tantalizing, they also represent ever-present obstacles to getting our writing done. To combat this problem, and better enable yourself to achieve your writing goals, author, professor, and writing coach Kathleen P. King suggests that you become the master of your writing universe.
Timesaving tech tip: Customize and create styles for consistent, instant document formatting
I’ve got my own writing style. I’m sure you do too. Regardless, you likely have editors, publishers, and/or teachers who insist on specific style requirements that can be quite tedious and time-consuming to apply on a document by document basis.
Timesaving tip: Customize and create styles for consistent and instant formatting.
To rejuvenate, consider closing your writing shop
Are you dragging when you think about your current writing project, or writing itself? Do you long to regain that old surge and rush of excitement? Maybe, like companies that close temporarily for renovation or universities that close for a holiday break, you need to close your writing shop for some needed rejuvenation.
It’s tough, I know. When we think of closing, even for a little while, a heap of ingenious excuses rear up. Any of these sound familiar?
How to minimize distractions and disruptions while writing
Unlike most writing disciplines, textbook and academic writing must be balanced with the distractions and disruptions of the many demands of academic life, including teaching, committee assignments, and research.
Five TAA members share how they minimize distractions and disruptions while writing, including how they eliminate electronic distractions, make time for writing, use music to focus, and edit later.
#AcWriChat TweetChat: Not on Twitter? Watch live here
Join TAA on Twitter Friday, June 29 at 11 a.m. ET using the hashtag #AcWriChat for our latest TweetChat focused on finding reliable sources.
Not on Twitter? Not sure what a “Tweet Chat” is? Follow us here (you won’t be able to actively participate, but you will be able to follow the chat live).
#AcWriChat re-caps on getting organized, writing productivity, finalizing and publishing your work
TAA and Janet Salmons from SAGE Methodspace co-hosted a series of Tweetchats for the exchange of ideas and resources about academic writing and publishing using the hashtag #AcWriChat.
View a recap of the 11/3 Tweet Chat – Get Organized
View a recap of the 11/17 Tweet Chat – Writing Productivity
View a recap of the 12/1 Tweet Chat – Finalizing and Publishing Your Work